Aston Villa suffer Leon Goretzka injury blow as midfielder confirms delayed debut

Aston Villa summer signing Leon Goretzka has confirmed he will have to wait until after the international break to make his debut after suffering an injury setback.

The 31-year-old joined Villa on a free transfer last month, but is yet to make an appearance for Unai Emery’s side.

Goretzka arrived without having completed a normal pre-season, although Emery initially expressed satisfaction with the midfielder’s physical condition.

However, the increased training workload has now taken its toll.

Goretzka revealed the news in a statement to Aston Villa supporters on Instagram, explaining that his body had reacted to the increased intensity following his period away from regular football.

“Unfortunately, my body has reacted to the increased workload after my time away from the pitch,” Goretzka said.

“It’s frustrating, but I need this short break now to come back at full strength.”

The Germany international intends to use the upcoming international break to complete his recovery before becoming available to Emery.

“I’ll use the coming days, including the international break, to recover fully and I’ll be back ready to fight and give everything for you and for Villa,” he added.

Goretzka also thanked supporters for the welcome he has received since completing his move, saying his first days at Aston Villa have reinforced his belief that he made the right decision.

The setback means Emery will remain without one of his major summer additions during an important period.

Goretzka brings considerable experience from his time at Bayern Munich and was recruited to strengthen Villa's midfield options, but the priority will now be ensuring he is fully fit rather than rushing his debut.

His absence comes during a difficult start to the campaign for Villa, who remain without a victory after their opening three matches.

Their attention now turns to Europe, with Emery's side facing Club Brugge in the Champions League on Tuesday night as they search for their first win of the season.

Goretzka's immediate focus will be completing his recovery during the international break before gradually returning to full training.

Villa will hope the problem proves to be only a short-term setback and that the midfielder can finally make his debut once domestic football resumes.

For Emery, the priority before then is finding results without him. Tuesday's Champions League meeting with Club Brugge provides Villa with their next opportunity to secure a first victory of the new campaign.

If Goretzka returns at full fitness after the break, his experience and physical presence could provide an important boost as Villa enter a busy period across the Premier League and Champions League.